User assembled motorized puzzle

ABSTRACT

One example embodiment includes a movable puzzle. The movable puzzle includes a puzzle, where the puzzle forms a three dimensional shape when completed. The movable puzzle also includes a motor, where the motor is configured to move the completed puzzle.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/375,611 filed on Aug. 20, 2010, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Puzzles are a fun recreational activity that have been used and played with for centuries. They can range from simple and easily done by children to some of the most complicated puzzles completed by adults or even studied by academics. They provide intellectual stimulation and encourage problem solving. Puzzles can help the user learn as they encourage the user to think about the solution process in new ways.

Puzzles can include virtually any type of problem solving activity. For example, puzzles can include two dimensional pieces that interlock with one another or can include complicated three dimensional models that require large amount of time to complete and which include intricate details.

However, many puzzles suffer a similar drawback. Namely, once the puzzle is assembled, the user is done with the puzzle. Some hobbyists glue the pieces together to keep the puzzle in the assembled configuration to preserve the completed puzzle, but rarely does the user ever use the completed puzzle for anything other than display. This means that the user's enjoyment of the puzzle is at an end once the puzzle has been completed. I.e., the user's enjoyment of the puzzle for its own sake is removed once the puzzle is completed.

Further, the completed puzzle is stationary. That is, the completed puzzle does not move. This makes it suitable for display, but does not make it suitable for further use, such as for use as a toy or for other uses. I.e., the puzzle cannot be moved to different poses or otherwise played with. In addition, the completed puzzle may be delicate. This means that children or others, who may have assisted in completing the puzzle, are unable to use the puzzle further for fear that damage will be done to the completed puzzle.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a puzzle which can be played with after completion. Further, there is a need in the art for the puzzle to be able to move or otherwise change positions. Additionally, there is a need in the art for the puzzle to be resilient.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential characteristics of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

One example embodiment includes a movable puzzle. The movable puzzle includes a puzzle, where the puzzle forms a three dimensional shape when completed. The movable puzzle also includes a motor, where the motor is configured to move the completed puzzle.

Another example embodiment includes a movable puzzle. The movable puzzle includes a puzzle. The puzzle includes two or more pieces, the two or more pieces configured to connect to one another and forms a three dimensional shape when completed. The movable puzzle also includes a motor, where the motor is configured to move the completed puzzle.

Another example embodiment includes a movable puzzle. The movable puzzle includes a puzzle. The puzzle includes two or more pieces, the two or more pieces configured to connect to one another and forms a three dimensional shape when completed. The movable puzzle also includes a battery and a motor, where the motor is configured to convert energy in the battery to mechanical motion. The movable puzzle further includes a drive rod, where the drive rod transmits the mechanical motion output by the motor to motion of the puzzle. The movable puzzle additionally includes a linkage, where the linkage is configured to transmit motion of the drive rod to a portion of the completed puzzle.

These and other objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To further clarify various aspects of some example embodiments of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only illustrated embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a puzzle;

FIG. 2 illustrates a simplified top view of the puzzle;

FIG. 3 illustrates a simplified side view of the puzzle; and

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a puzzle with a controller.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made to the figures wherein like structures will be provided with like reference designations. It is understood that the figures are diagrammatic and schematic representations of some embodiments of the invention, and are not limiting of the present invention, nor are they necessarily drawn to scale.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a puzzle 100. In at least one implementation, the puzzle 100 can include a construction puzzle. A construction puzzle can include any puzzle where a user assembles a given set of pieces in a certain configuration and/or order. In a construction puzzle the user builds (assembles) a technical contraption. This may be a static object (such as a bridge) or a mechanical object (like a machine or animal). One of skill in the art will appreciate that although an animal shaped construction puzzle is used as an example of the puzzle 100 in FIG. 1 the puzzle is not limited to either animal shapes or construction puzzles but can include any desired puzzle type and shape.

Examples for these types of construction puzzles are stick puzzles, many tiling puzzles and also some mechanical puzzles. Stick puzzles use sets of “polysticks” (sticks attached to each other to form a line or at right angles within a plane) which have to be assembled into two- or three-dimensional configurations. Tiling puzzles are puzzles involving two-dimensional packing problems in which a number of flat shapes have to be assembled into a larger given shape without overlaps (and often without gaps). E.g., a jigsaw or similar puzzle. A mechanical puzzle is a puzzle presented as a set of mechanically interlinked pieces. In particular, a mechanical puzzle is a puzzle which can be used to form one or more three dimensional objects.

In at least one implementation, the puzzle 100 can be made of any suitable material. For example, the puzzle 100 can be made of wood, metal, plastic or any other suitable material. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the different portions of the puzzle 100 can be made of differing materials, as desired. Therefore, the composition material should not be considered as limiting unless otherwise indicated in the claims.

FIG. 1 shows that the puzzle 100 can include a body 102. In at least one implementation, the body 102 can include the main design of the puzzle 100. In particular, the body 102 can include a portion of the puzzle 100 which is intended to simulate the appearance of an object. I.e., the body 102 can, once assembled, be a completed model of an object.

FIG. 1 shows that the body 100 can include a trunk 104. In at least one implementation, the trunk 104 can include the central portion of the puzzle 100. In particular, the trunk 104 can provide support to other portions of the puzzle 100 and or contain other portions of the puzzle 100, as described below. The trunk 104 can be composed of several parts or pieces which the user is required to assemble. The pieces may be required to be assembled in a particular order or can be assembled in any order, depending on the pieces used.

FIG. 1 additionally shows that the body 102 can include one or more legs 106. In at least one implementation, the one or more legs 106 can include a weight bearing and locomotive structure. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more legs 106 can include additional details. For example, the one or more legs can include joints, feet and toes. The one or more legs 106 can have a columnar shape and can be connected to the trunk 104. In particular, the one or more legs 106 can support the trunk 104 and provide motion which moves the trunk 104, as described below.

FIG. 1 also shows that the body 102 can include one or more upper limbs 108. In at least one implementation, the one or more upper limbs 108 can include one or more arms. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more upper limbs 108 can include additional legs. The one or more upper limbs 108 can include additional details. For example the upper limbs 108 can include joints, hands and fingers.

FIG. 1 further shows that the body 102 can include a head 110. In at least one implementation, the head 110 can include the foremost portion of an animal. The head 110 can include additional details. For example, the head 110 can include joints, a mouth, eyes, a nose and a neck.

FIG. 1 additionally shows that the body 102 can include a tail 112. In at least one implementation, the tail 112 can include the hindmost part of an animal. In particular, the tail 112 can include a distinct, flexible appendage to the trunk 104. The tail 112 can provide balance or other functions.

FIG. 1 also shows that the puzzle 100 can include a motor 114. In at least one implementation, the motor 114 is configured to produce motion in the puzzle 100. The motor 114 can include any device capable of producing motion in the puzzle 100. For example, the motor 114 can include a device that is configured to convert electrical power into mechanical motion. Additionally or alternatively, the motor 114 can include a device which the user can move and converts the motion into mechanical motion of the puzzle 100.

FIG. 1 further shows that the puzzle 100 can include a battery 116. In at least one implementation, the battery 116 can provide electrical or mechanical power to the motor 114. In particular, the battery 116 can include an energy storage device which is capable of powering the motor 114. For example, the battery 116 can include an electrochemical cell that converts chemical energy into electrical energy. Additionally or alternatively, the battery 116 can include a rubber band, a spring or other device capable of storing mechanical energy.

FIG. 2 illustrates a simplified top view of the puzzle 100. In at least one implementation, the completed puzzle 100 is capable of motion. I.e., the puzzle 100 can execute a series of movements once it is completed. The movements can be automatic or user controlled, as described below.

FIG. 2 shows that the puzzle 100 can include a drive rod 202. In at least one implementation, the drive rod 202 can connect the motor 114 to the trunk 104. In particular, the drive rod 202 can allow mechanical motion produced by the motor 114 to be translated into motion of the trunk 104. I.e., the drive rod 202 can translate the mechanical motion output by the motor 114 to the trunk 104, producing motion in the trunk 104. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the drive rod 202 can produce motion in a portion of the puzzle 100 other than the trunk 104.

FIG. 2 also shows that the puzzle 100 can include one or more linkages 204. In at least one implementation, the one or more linkages 204 can allow the appendages of the body 102 to move. In particular, the one or more linkages 204 can allow mechanical motion produced by the motor 114 to produce motion in the appendages of the body 102. For example, the one or more linkages 204 can provide a direct connection between the motor 114 or the connecting rod 202 and the appendages of the body 102. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more linkages 204 can translate motion of the trunk 104 to motion of the appendages of the body 102.

FIG. 2 further shows that the puzzle 100 can include a rear join plate 206. In at least one implementation, the rear join plate 206 is configured to move the one or more legs 106. In particular, the rear join plate 206 can be connected to the trunk 104 and the one or more legs 106 such that motion of the trunk 104 is translated into motion of the one or more legs 106. Additionally or alternatively, the linkage 204 can connect the rear join plate 206 to the driver rod 202 and/or the motor 114. In addition, the rear join plate 206 can induce motion in the tail 112, either through a direct connection to the tail 112 or through a linkage 204.

FIG. 2 additionally shows that the puzzle 100 can include a front join plate 208. In at least one implementation, the front join plate 208 is configured to move the head 110 In particular the front join plate 208 can be connected to the trunk 104 and the head 110 such that motion of the trunk 104 is translated into motion of the head 110. Additionally or alternatively, the linkage 204 can connect the front join plate 208 to the driver rod 202 and/or the motor 114. In addition, the front join plate 208 can induce motion in the upper limbs 108, either through a direct connection to the upper limbs 108 or through a linkage 204.

FIG. 3 illustrates a simplified side view of the puzzle 100. In at least one implementation, the puzzle 100 can move when completed. For example, the puzzle 100 can drive, walk, move arms, portions can swivel or produce other motions, as described below.

FIG. 3 shows that the puzzle 100 can include a head motion mechanism 302. In at least one implementation, the head motion mechanism 302 can produce motion in the head 110. In particular, the head motion mechanism 302 can be connected to a drive rod 202 by a linkage 204. The linkage 204 can transmit motion of the drive rod 202 to the head motion mechanism 302. The head motion mechanism 302 can include various apparatus to allow the head 110 to produce desired motions. For example, the head motion mechanism 302 can include a four-rod mechanism composed of an upper jaw, an upper rod of the neck, a lower rod of the neck, and a head-arms middle rod. The four-rod mechanism can allow different portions of the head 110 to move in distinct manners from one another providing a more realistic motion.

FIG. 3 also shows that the puzzle 100 can include a trunk motion mechanism 304. In at least one implementation, the trunk motion mechanism 304 can produce motion in the trunk 104. In particular, the trunk motion mechanism 304 can be connected to a drive rod 202 by a linkage. The linkage can transmit motion of the drive rod 202 to the trunk motion mechanism 304. The trunk motion mechanism 304 can include various apparatus to allow the trunk 104 to produce desired motions. For example, the trunk motion mechanism 304 can include a four-rod mechanism composed of an upper rod of the back, a middle rod of the back, a lower rod of the back, and the arms-back middle rod. The four-rod mechanism can allow different portions of the trunk 104 to move in distinct manners from one another providing a more realistic motion.

FIG. 3 further shows that the puzzle 100 can include a upper limb motion mechanism 306. In at least one implementation, the upper limb motion mechanism 306 can produce motion in the upper limbs 108. In particular, the upper limb motion mechanism 306 can be connected to a drive rod 202 by a linkage 204. The linkage 204 can transmit motion of the drive rod 202 to the upper limb motion mechanism 306. The upper limb motion mechanism 306 can include various apparatus to allow the upper limbs to produce desired motions. For example, the upper limb motion mechanism 306 can include a four-rod mechanism composed of a head-arms middle rod, an upper rod of the arms, a lower rod of the arms, and an arms-back middle rod. The four-rod mechanism can allow different portions of the upper limbs 108 to move in distinct manners from one another providing a more realistic motion.

The head motion mechanism 302, the trunk motion mechanism 304 and the upper limb motion mechanism 306 are illustrated for exemplary purposes only. That is, they are applicable in animal and human puzzles 100. However, other puzzles 100 can include other shapes, such as machines and the like. One of skill in the art will appreciate that other shapes may require other motion mechanisms. For example, a car may require motion mechanisms which turn the wheels, move the doors, etc. Therefore, the motion mechanisms should not be seen as limiting unless otherwise specified in the claims.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of the puzzle 100 with a controller 400. In at least one implementation, the controller 400 can allow a user to control the motion of the puzzle 100. In particular, a user can use the controller 400 to produce desired motions in the puzzle 100, as described below.

FIG. 4 shows that the controller 400 can include a connection 402 to the puzzle 100. In at least one implementation, the connection 402 can include any device or apparatus which is capable of communicating control signals from the controller 402 to the puzzle 100 and vice versa. For example, the connection 402 can include one or more wires or wireless transmitters and receivers.

FIG. 4 also shows that the controller 400 can include one or more controls 404. In at least one implementation, the one or more controls 404 can allow a user to select movements of the puzzle 100. For example, the one or more controls 404 can include joysticks, buttons, touch screens and the like. The one or more controls 404 can translate movements of the user to motion in the puzzle 100.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A movable puzzle, the movable puzzle comprising: a puzzle, wherein the puzzle forms a three dimensional shape when completed; and a motor, wherein the motor is configured to move the completed puzzle.
 2. The movable puzzle of claim 1, wherein the three dimensional shape includes an animal.
 3. The movable puzzle of claim 1, wherein the three dimensional shape includes a head.
 4. The movable puzzle of claim 1, wherein the three dimensional shape includes one or more legs.
 5. The movable puzzle of claim 1, wherein the three dimensional shape includes one or more upper limbs.
 6. The movable puzzle of claim 5, wherein the one or more upper limbs include one or more arms.
 7. The movable puzzle of claim 5, wherein the one or more upper limbs include one or more front legs.
 8. The movable puzzle of claim 1, wherein the three dimensional shape includes a tail.
 9. The movable puzzle of claim 1, wherein the three dimensional shape includes a vehicle.
 10. The movable puzzle of claim 9, wherein the vehicle includes one or more wheels.
 11. The movable puzzle of claim 9, wherein the vehicle includes one or more lights.
 12. A movable puzzle, the movable puzzle comprising: a puzzle, wherein the puzzle: includes two or more pieces, the two or more pieces configured to connect to one another; and forms a three dimensional shape when completed; and a motor, wherein the motor is configured to move the completed puzzle.
 13. The movable puzzle of claim 12, wherein the motor includes an apparatus, wherein the user movers the apparatus to induce motion in the completed puzzle.
 14. The movable puzzle of claim 12, wherein the motor include an electric motor.
 15. The movable puzzle of claim 12, wherein the motor includes a battery.
 16. A movable puzzle, the movable puzzle comprising: a puzzle, wherein the puzzle: includes two or more pieces, the two or more pieces configured to connect to one another; and forms a three dimensional shape when completed; a battery; a motor, wherein the motor is configured to convert energy in the battery to mechanical motion; a drive rod, wherein the drive rod transmits the mechanical motion output by the motor to motion of the puzzle; and a linkage, wherein the linkage is configured to transmit motion of the drive rod to a portion of the completed puzzle.
 17. The movable puzzle of claim 16 further comprising a control, wherein the control is configured to control the motion produced in the completed puzzle.
 18. The movable puzzle of claim 17, wherein the control is connected to the motor.
 19. The movable puzzle of claim 18, wherein the connection includes a wireless connection.
 20. The movable puzzle of claim 16 further comprising a speaker, wherein the speaker is configured to produce sound which matches the three dimensional shape of the puzzle. 